Integrated hub enhancing cardiac care for patients across County Roscommon
Dr Nuria Farre, Consultant Cardiologist, East Galway Roscommon Integrated Care Hub with Bernadette Whelan.
Over 1,000 cardiology patients across Roscommon and East Galway have availed of a community-based consultant-led and clinical nurse specialist service, the East Galway Roscommon Integrated Care Hub, since its introduction.
Led by Consultant Cardiologist Dr Nuria Farre, the hub delivers timely cardiac care closer to patients in their own communities.
Operating across Castlerea, Monksland, Ballinasloe, Tuam, Loughrea, and Mountbellew, the service supports patients aged over 16 with atrial fibrillation, hypertension, high cardiovascular risk, complex dyslipidaemia, heart failure, or a family history of premature ischemic heart disease.
Patients benefit from a consultant and clinical nurse specialist-led model that provides rapid access to expert advice, medication management, education on symptoms, self-care guidance, and comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation programmes.
The hub’s multidisciplinary team includes a consultant cardiologist, advanced nurse practitioner in heart failure, three cardiology clinical nurse specialists, a cardiac rehab coordinator, a senior physiotherapist, a cardiology staff nurse, and administrative support.
Initially prioritising patients from Portiuncula University Hospital waiting lists, the hub helped to significantly reduce delays in access to specialist care. Now, following the introduction of GP referrals, patients who would otherwise have been referred to hospital are being seen directly in the community.
Dr Nuria Farre, Consultant Cardiologist commented: "The integrated hub allows us to bring specialist cardiology care closer to the community, supporting both patients and GPs. Our clinical nurse specialist team empowers patients to manage their conditions confidently while ensuring they receive timely expert guidance."
Speaking about her experience with the hub, Bernadette Whelan said: “I’m so grateful to Dr Farre and her wonderful team for the exceptional care they provide. After experiencing a cardiac event last year and receiving excellent treatment at University Hospital Galway, I was referred to Dr Farre and her team to continue my recovery.
“From the very first meeting, I was treated with warmth, compassion, and professionalism. They supported me every step of the way, even while I was on holiday, and made me feel truly cared for, not just like another patient. I’m deeply thankful for their kindness and dedication.”
